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How are fats digested in our bodies?
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How are fats digested in our bodies?
• Digestion of fat takes place in the small intestine. The fats are present in the form of large globules in the small intestine. Fat-digesting enzymes are not able to act upon large globules efficiently.

Bile juice secreted by the liver is poured into the intestine along with pancreatic juice. The bile salts present in the bile juice emulsify the large globules of fats. So, due to emulsification large globules breakdown into small globules, which provide larger surface area to act upon by the enzymes.

• Lipase enzyme present in the pancreatic juice causes breakdown of emulsified fats. Glands present in the wall of small intestine secrete intestinal juice which contains lipase enzyme that converts fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
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How are fats digested in our bodies?
Digestion of Fats in Our Bodies


When we eat foods containing fats, they need to be broken down into smaller molecules to be absorbed and used by our body. This process of breaking down fats is called digestion, and it involves several steps.


Step 1: Emulsification



  • When fats reach the stomach, they are mixed with bile, a substance produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder.

  • Bile contains bile salts that act as emulsifiers, breaking down large fat droplets into smaller ones.

  • Emulsification increases the surface area of fats, making it easier for enzymes to break them down.



Step 2: Enzymatic Digestion



  • Once the fats are emulsified, they travel to the small intestine where pancreatic lipase, an enzyme produced by the pancreas, breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

  • Other enzymes, such as colipase and phospholipase, also play a role in fat digestion.

  • The fatty acids and glycerol are then absorbed by the intestinal lining and transported to the liver through the bloodstream.



Step 3: Absorption and Transport



  • The fatty acids and glycerol are absorbed by the intestinal lining and transported to the liver through the bloodstream.

  • In the liver, the fatty acids and glycerol are either used for energy or stored as body fat.

  • Fats that are not immediately needed for energy are stored in adipose tissue, which acts as a long-term energy reserve.



Step 4: Elimination



  • Any undigested fats are eliminated from the body through the feces.

  • If the body is unable to digest fats properly, it can lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea and malabsorption.



In conclusion, the digestion of fats is a complex process that involves emulsification, enzymatic digestion, absorption and transport, and elimination. It is important to consume a balanced diet that includes healthy fats in moderation to support overall health and wellbeing.
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How are fats digested in our bodies?
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